TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The University of Alabama’s Interfraternity Council was recently honored with an Award of Distinction by the North-American Interfraternity Conference.

The UA Interfraternity Council was the recipient of the NIC’s Council Award of Distinction for developing a safe, healthy and meaningful fraternity experience for it officers, member chapters, community and campus.

“We are extremely humbled and honored to receive an award of this prestige for the first time in our history,” said Vincent Zicarelli, UA IFC president. “Throughout the 2018 IFC term, Greek life has been under a microscope due to several tragedies across the nation. Winning this award affirms and invigorates our leaders from all four Greek councils who consistently show tremendous leadership and commitment to collaboration as we seek to promote and further establish a safe and healthy campus environment.”

With the safety and security of all UA students as a top priority, the IFC hosted its inaugural barbecue with the UA Police Department and Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue to increase collaboration between the fraternity community, local law enforcement and first responders.

“The event was a unique opportunity to interact and build relationships to reinforce our goal of promoting a safe campus environment,” said Zicarelli. “It allowed everyone to better understand their respective roles in the community.”

In the fall of 2017, the IFC partnered with the UA Student Government Association and Panhellenic Association to address a need in the community for more resources and support for students with mental health issues. In the past year, the IFC assisted in establishing and significantly contributing to the RESPECT (Reaching Every Student Possible Ensuring Care and Treatment) Endowed Support Fund. This fund will serve as a monetary resource for mental health and wellness oriented services and organizations on campus for years to come.

“This is an exciting time for fraternity men at UA,” said Jared Pacileo, IFC adviser. “Winning this award recognizes the hard work of student leaders, who committed to collaborating with community stakeholders on a shared vision of improving the overall health and safety of our campus community.”

“I believe that there are many important factors for the long-term success of Greek life at UA,” said Zicarelli when talking about his role as IFC president. “My vision is for every stakeholder to have a voice in the process of improving our community.”